CPS commission: Don't shut down high schools

CHICAGO — A panel appointed to review possible Chicago public school closures and consolidations is recommending that all current high schools stay open.

The eight-member Commission on School Utilization was appointed by CPS chief Barbara Byrd-Bennett. It issued early recommendations Thursday that include not targeting any high schools for closure.

It also recommends keeping open high-performing schools, those with more than 600 students and those close to meeting the enrollment standards. The district faces a $1 billion deficit and says it could save money by closing schools with low student populations.